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Open AccessArticle Kinetics Study of Gas Pollutant Adsorption and Thermal Desorption on Silica Gel
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7(6), 609; doi:10.3390/app7060609
Received: 6 April 2017 / Revised: 7 June 2017 / Accepted: 8 June 2017 / Published: 12 June 2017
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Abstract
Silica gel is a typical porous desiccant material. Its adsorption performance for gaseous air pollutants was investigated to determine its potential contribution to reducing such pollutants. Three gaseous air pollutants, toluene, carbon dioxide, and methane, were investigated in this paper. A thermogravimetric analyzer
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Silica gel is a typical porous desiccant material. Its adsorption performance for gaseous air pollutants was investigated to determine its potential contribution to reducing such pollutants. Three gaseous air pollutants, toluene, carbon dioxide, and methane, were investigated in this paper. A thermogravimetric analyzer was used to obtain the equilibrium adsorption capacity of gases on single silica gel particles. The silica gel adsorption capacity for toluene is much higher than that for carbon dioxide and methane. To understand gas pollutant thermal desorption from silica gel, the thermogravimetric analysis of toluene desorption was conducted with 609 ppm toluene vapor at 313 K, 323 K, and 333 K. The overall regeneration rate of silica gel was strongly dependent on temperature and the enthalpy of desorption. The gas pollutant adsorption performance and thermal desorption on silica gel material may be used to estimate the operating and design parameters for gas pollutant adsorption by desiccant wheels. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Chemistry)
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Open AccessArticle Exploring the Pivotal Role of the CK2 Hinge Region Sub-Pocket in Binding with Tricyclic Quinolone Analogues by Computational Analysis
Molecules 2017, 22(5), 840; doi:10.3390/molecules22050840
Received: 14 April 2017 / Revised: 12 May 2017 / Accepted: 17 May 2017 / Published: 19 May 2017
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Abstract
Protein kinase CK2 has been considered as an attractive therapeutic target of cancer therapy. The tricyclic quinoline compound CX-4945 is the first representative of CK2 inhibitors used in human clinical trials. The binding of non-2,6-naphtyridine substituted compounds 27e (IC50 > 500 nM)
[...] Read more.
Protein kinase CK2 has been considered as an attractive therapeutic target of cancer therapy. The tricyclic quinoline compound CX-4945 is the first representative of CK2 inhibitors used in human clinical trials. The binding of non-2,6-naphtyridine substituted compounds 27e (IC50 > 500 nM) and 27h (IC50 > 1000 nM) to CK2 is abolished. However, the unbinding mechanisms due to the key pharmacophore group replacement of compounds 27e and 27h are unveiled. In the present work, combined computational analysis was performed to investigate the underlying structural basis of the low-affinity of two systems. As indicated in the results, the loss of hydrogen bonds between the non-2,6-naphtyridine and the hinge region destroyed the proper recognition of the two complexes. Besides, the allosteric mechanisms between the deviated ligands and the changed regions (G-loop, C-loop and β4/β5 loop) are proposed. Furthermore, energetic analysis was evaluated by detailed energy calculation and residue-based energy decomposition. More importantly, the summary of known polar pharmacophore groups elucidates the pivotal roles of hinge region sub-pocket in the binding of CK2 inhibitors. These results provide rational clues to the fragment-based design of more potent CK2 inhibitors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontiers in Computational Chemistry for Drug Discovery)
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Open AccessArticle A Short-Term Photovoltaic Power Prediction Model Based on an FOS-ELM Algorithm
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7(4), 423; doi:10.3390/app7040423
Received: 8 March 2017 / Revised: 12 April 2017 / Accepted: 17 April 2017 / Published: 21 April 2017
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Abstract
With the increasing proportion of photovoltaic (PV) power in power systems, the problem of its fluctuation and intermittency has become more prominent. To reduce the negative influence of the use of PV power, we propose a short-term PV power prediction model based on
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With the increasing proportion of photovoltaic (PV) power in power systems, the problem of its fluctuation and intermittency has become more prominent. To reduce the negative influence of the use of PV power, we propose a short-term PV power prediction model based on the online sequential extreme learning machine with forgetting mechanism (FOS-ELM), which can constantly replace outdated data with new data. We use historical weather data and historical PV power data to predict the PV power in the next period of time. The simulation result shows that this model has the advantages of a short training time and high accuracy. This model can help the power dispatch department schedule generation plans as well as support spatial and temporal compensation and coordinated power control, which is important for the security and stability as well as the optimal operation of power systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Distribution Power Systems)
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Open AccessArticle Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Antioxidants from the Mung Bean Coat
Molecules 2017, 22(4), 638; doi:10.3390/molecules22040638
Received: 13 March 2017 / Revised: 9 April 2017 / Accepted: 12 April 2017 / Published: 15 April 2017
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 509 | PDF Full-text (1064 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Mung bean (Vigna radiata) sprout is commonly consumed as a vegetable, while the coat of the germinated mung bean is a waste. In this paper, an ultrasound-assisted extraction method has been developed to extract natural antioxidants from the seed coat of
[...] Read more.
Mung bean (Vigna radiata) sprout is commonly consumed as a vegetable, while the coat of the germinated mung bean is a waste. In this paper, an ultrasound-assisted extraction method has been developed to extract natural antioxidants from the seed coat of mung bean. Several experimental parameters—which included ethanol concentration, solvent/material ratio, ultrasound extraction time, temperature, and power—were studied in single-factor experiments. The interaction of three key experimental parameters (ethanol concentration, solvent/material ratio, and ultrasonic extraction time) was further investigated by response surface method. Besides, traditional extracting methods, including maceration and Soxhlet extraction methods, were also carried out for comparison. The results suggested that the best extracting condition was 37.6% (v/v) of ethanol concentration, 35.1:1 mL/g of solvent/material ratio and ultrasonic extraction of 46.1 min at 70 °C under 500 W ultrasonic irradiation. The antioxidant capacity (178.28 ± 7.39 µmol Trolox/g DW) was much stronger than those obtained by the maceration extraction process (158.66 ± 4.73 µmol Trolox/g DW) and the Soxhlet extraction process (138.42 ± 3.63 µmol Trolox/g DW). In addition, several antioxidant components in the extract were identified and quantified. This study is helpful for value-added utilization of the waste from germinated mung bean. Full article
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Open AccessReview Dietary Sources and Bioactivities of Melatonin
Nutrients 2017, 9(4), 367; doi:10.3390/nu9040367
Received: 21 January 2017 / Revised: 14 March 2017 / Accepted: 31 March 2017 / Published: 7 April 2017
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1234 | PDF Full-text (1541 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Insomnia is a serious worldwide health threat, affecting nearly one third of the general population. Melatonin has been reported to improve sleep efficiency and it was found that eating melatonin-rich foods could assist sleep. During the last decades, melatonin has been widely identified
[...] Read more.
Insomnia is a serious worldwide health threat, affecting nearly one third of the general population. Melatonin has been reported to improve sleep efficiency and it was found that eating melatonin-rich foods could assist sleep. During the last decades, melatonin has been widely identified and qualified in various foods from fungi to animals and plants. Eggs and fish are higher melatonin-containing food groups in animal foods, whereas in plant foods, nuts are with the highest content of melatonin. Some kinds of mushrooms, cereals and germinated legumes or seeds are also good dietary sources of melatonin. It has been proved that the melatonin concentration in human serum could significantly increase after the consumption of melatonin containing food. Furthermore, studies show that melatonin exhibits many bioactivities, such as antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory characteristics, boosting immunity, anticancer activity, cardiovascular protection, anti-diabetic, anti-obese, neuroprotective and anti-aging activity. This review summaries the dietary sources and bioactivities of melatonin, with special attention paid to the mechanisms of action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidants in Health and Disease)
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Open AccessArticle Quantifying Light Absorption of Iron Oxides and Carbonaceous Aerosol in Seasonal Snow across Northern China
Atmosphere 2017, 8(4), 63; doi:10.3390/atmos8040063
Received: 26 January 2017 / Revised: 10 March 2017 / Accepted: 18 March 2017 / Published: 28 March 2017
Viewed by 387 | PDF Full-text (2750 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text | Supplementary Files
Abstract
In this study, we attempted to quantify light absorption by insoluble light-absorbing particles (ILAPs) such as black carbon (BC), organic carbon (OC) and iron oxides in snow using an optical method directly and compared the results with those obtained using optical and chemical
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In this study, we attempted to quantify light absorption by insoluble light-absorbing particles (ILAPs) such as black carbon (BC), organic carbon (OC) and iron oxides in snow using an optical method directly and compared the results with those obtained using optical and chemical analysis methods cooperatively in previous studies. The mass absorption coefficients (MACs) and absorption Ångström exponents (AAEs) of pure hematite, goethite and fullerene soot were also measured using an integrating sphere/integrating sandwich (ISSW) spectrophotometer in the laboratory. The results indicated that the MACs of pure hematite and goethite are 0.97 ± 0.02 m2·g−1 and 0.43 ± 0.01 m2·g−1 at 550 nm, and their AAEs are 5.53 ± 0.47 and 2.18 ± 0.16 from 550 nm to 750 nm, respectively. The MAC and AAE of fullerene soot are 6.40 ± 0.42 m2·g−1 at 550 nm and 0.54 ± 0.06 from 450 to 750 nm. By using the regionally average AAEs of non-BC components in snow, we evaluated the performance of a directly optical analysis, rather than combination of the optical and chemical methods, in quantifying the light absorption of BC, OC and Fe in snow samples. We found that the directly optical method used to measure the light absorption of BC and OC in Northern China snow has substantially low biases of 6.29% and 4.27% in median comparing to previous method. However, the high biases in estimating light absorption of Fe (33.01%) may be associated with the significant underestimation of the AAE of Fe. Full article
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Open AccessReview Effects of Melatonin on Liver Injuries and Diseases
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(4), 673; doi:10.3390/ijms18040673
Received: 9 January 2017 / Revised: 15 March 2017 / Accepted: 17 March 2017 / Published: 23 March 2017
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 775 | PDF Full-text (1255 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Liver injuries and diseases are serious health problems worldwide. Various factors, such as chemical pollutants, drugs, and alcohol, could induce liver injuries. Liver diseases involve a wide range of liver pathologies, including hepatic steatosis, fatty liver, hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocarcinoma. Despite all
[...] Read more.
Liver injuries and diseases are serious health problems worldwide. Various factors, such as chemical pollutants, drugs, and alcohol, could induce liver injuries. Liver diseases involve a wide range of liver pathologies, including hepatic steatosis, fatty liver, hepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocarcinoma. Despite all the studies performed up to now, therapy choices for liver injuries and diseases are very few. Therefore, the search for a new treatment that could safely and effectively block or reverse liver injuries and diseases remains a priority. Melatonin is a well-known natural antioxidant, and has many bioactivities. There are numerous studies investigating the effects of melatonin on liver injuries and diseases, and melatonin could regulate various molecular pathways, such as inflammation, proliferation, apoptosis, metastasis, and autophagy in different pathophysiological situations. Melatonin could be used for preventing and treating liver injuries and diseases. Herein, we conduct a review summarizing the potential roles of melatonin in liver injuries and diseases, paying special attention to the mechanisms of action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioactives and Nutraceuticals)
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Open AccessArticle Optimal Scheduling of Industrial Task-Continuous Load Management for Smart Power Utilization
Appl. Sci. 2017, 7(3), 281; doi:10.3390/app7030281
Received: 9 November 2016 / Revised: 27 February 2017 / Accepted: 9 March 2017 / Published: 14 March 2017
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 395 | PDF Full-text (1768 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
In the context of climate change and energy crisis around the world, an increasing amount of attention has been paid to developing clean energy and improving energy efficiency. The penetration of distributed generation (DG) is increasing rapidly on the user’s side of an
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In the context of climate change and energy crisis around the world, an increasing amount of attention has been paid to developing clean energy and improving energy efficiency. The penetration of distributed generation (DG) is increasing rapidly on the user’s side of an increasingly intelligent power system. This paper proposes an optimization method for industrial task-continuous load management in which distributed generation (including photovoltaic systems and wind generation) and energy storage devices are both considered. To begin with, a model of distributed generation and an energy storage device are built. Then, subject to various constraints, an operation optimization problem is formulated to maximize user profit, renewable energy efficiency, and the local consumption of distributed generation. Finally, the effectiveness of the method is verified by comparing user profit under different power modes. Full article
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Open AccessReview Effects and Mechanisms of Fruit and Vegetable Juices on Cardiovascular Diseases
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(3), 555; doi:10.3390/ijms18030555
Received: 20 January 2017 / Revised: 23 February 2017 / Accepted: 28 February 2017 / Published: 4 March 2017
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Abstract
Many studies have indicated that consumption of vegetables and fruits are positively related to lower incidence of several chronic noncommunicable diseases. Although composition of fruit and vegetable juices is different from that of the edible portion of fruits and vegetables, they contain polyphenols
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Many studies have indicated that consumption of vegetables and fruits are positively related to lower incidence of several chronic noncommunicable diseases. Although composition of fruit and vegetable juices is different from that of the edible portion of fruits and vegetables, they contain polyphenols and vitamins from fruits and vegetables. Drinking vegetable and fruit juices is very popular in many countries, and also an efficient way to improve consumption of fruits and vegetables. The studies showed that fruit and vegetable juices affect cardiovascular risk factors, such as lowering blood pressure and improving blood lipid profiles. The main mechanisms of action included antioxidant effects, improvement of the aspects of the cardiovascular system, inhibition of platelet aggregation, anti-inflammatory effects, and prevention of hyperhomocysteinemia. Drinking juices might be a potential way to improve cardiovascular health, especially mixtures of juices because they contain a variety of polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals from different fruits and vegetables. This review summarizes recent studies on the effects of fruit and vegetable juices on indicators of cardiovascular disease, and special attention is paid to the mechanisms of action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Correlation between Nutrition, Oxidative Stress and Disease)
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Open AccessArticle Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction and Identification of Natural Antioxidants from the Fruit of Melastoma sanguineum Sims
Molecules 2017, 22(2), 306; doi:10.3390/molecules22020306
Received: 13 January 2017 / Revised: 10 February 2017 / Accepted: 15 February 2017 / Published: 18 February 2017
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Abstract
The fruit of Melastoma sanguineum Sims is an edible and sweet wild fruit. In our previous study, the fruit was found to have a strong antioxidant property. In this study, an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method was developed to extract natural antioxidants from the
[...] Read more.
The fruit of Melastoma sanguineum Sims is an edible and sweet wild fruit. In our previous study, the fruit was found to have a strong antioxidant property. In this study, an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method was developed to extract natural antioxidants from the fruit of Melastoma sanguineum Sims, and a response surface methodology was used to optimize the conditions of UAE to maximize the extraction efficiency. The influence of five independent extraction parameters (ethanol concentration, solvent/material ratio, extracting time, temperature, and ultrasound power) on the extraction efficiency were investigated using a single factor experiment, and then a central composite rotatable design was used to investigate the interaction of three key parameters. The results showed that the optimal extraction conditions were 42.98% ethanol, 28.29 mL/g solvent/material ratio, 34.29 min extracting time, 60 °C temperature, and 600 W ultrasound power. Under these conditions, the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) value of the extracts was 1074.61 ± 32.56 μmol Trolox/g dry weight (DW). Compared with conventional maceration (723.27 ± 11.61 μmol Trolox/g DW) and Soxhlet extraction methods (518.37 ± 23.23 μmol Trolox/g DW), the UAE method improved the extraction efficiency, in a shorter period of time. In addition, epicatechin gallate, epicatechin, rutin, epigallocatechin, protocatechuic acid, chlorogenic acid, and quercetin, were identified and quantified in the fruit extracts of Melastoma sanguineum Sims by UPLC-MS/MS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sonochemistry and Green Chemistry Applications)
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Open AccessReview Natural Antioxidants in Foods and Medicinal Plants: Extraction, Assessment and Resources
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2017, 18(1), 96; doi:10.3390/ijms18010096
Received: 21 October 2016 / Revised: 24 December 2016 / Accepted: 27 December 2016 / Published: 5 January 2017
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 952 | PDF Full-text (694 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Natural antioxidants are widely distributed in food and medicinal plants. These natural antioxidants, especially polyphenols and carotenoids, exhibit a wide range of biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, anti-atherosclerosis and anticancer. The effective extraction and proper assessment of antioxidants from food and medicinal plants
[...] Read more.
Natural antioxidants are widely distributed in food and medicinal plants. These natural antioxidants, especially polyphenols and carotenoids, exhibit a wide range of biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, anti-atherosclerosis and anticancer. The effective extraction and proper assessment of antioxidants from food and medicinal plants are crucial to explore the potential antioxidant sources and promote the application in functional foods, pharmaceuticals and food additives. The present paper provides comprehensive information on the green extraction technologies of natural antioxidants, assessment of antioxidant activity at chemical and cellular based levels and their main resources from food and medicinal plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analytical Techniques in Plant and Food Analysis)
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Open AccessArticle The Effect of Freezing Drizzle, Sleet and Snow on Microphysical Characteristics of Supercooled Fog during the Icing Process in a Mountainous Area
Atmosphere 2016, 7(11), 143; doi:10.3390/atmos7110143
Received: 20 September 2016 / Revised: 6 November 2016 / Accepted: 8 November 2016 / Published: 11 November 2016
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Abstract
Both the similar and different effects of freezing drizzle, sleet and snow on microphysical properties of supercooled fog were analyzed for fourteen events during a comprehensive wire icing, fog, and precipitation observation experiment conducted at Enshi radar station (30°17′N, 109°16′E; 1722 m a.s.l.)
[...] Read more.
Both the similar and different effects of freezing drizzle, sleet and snow on microphysical properties of supercooled fog were analyzed for fourteen events during a comprehensive wire icing, fog, and precipitation observation experiment conducted at Enshi radar station (30°17′N, 109°16′E; 1722 m a.s.l.) on a hilltop in Shibanling, Hubei, China. Liquid precipitation is in a relatively stable form in mountainous areas. Short-term precipitation (1–3 h) is dominant with temperature below 0 °C. The wet scavenging effect of freezing drizzle on small fog droplets with a size range less than 6–12 μm is weak but is stronger for fog droplets with a larger size, which is opposite to the effects of solid precipitation, broadening the fog droplet spectra significantly. As the fog droplet diameter increases, the distributions of droplet spectra change from leptokurtosis to platykurtosis and from positive skewness to negative skewness. Occurrence of freezing drizzle would improve the positive correlation of N-r in dissipation and oscillation periods, resulting in the N-r relationship having a weak negative correlation in the maturity period, and resulting in the transition of the N-L and N-r relationships into positive correlations in the development period. Meanwhile, the emergence of solid precipitation particles would result in negative values for the correlation coefficients of N-L and N-r. The change in relationships among the microphysical properties was caused by the occurrence of different phase precipitation, showing the influence on the main microphysical mechanisms of supercooled fog. Full article
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Open AccessArticle Extraction of Natural Antioxidants from the Thelephora ganbajun Mushroom by an Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Technique and Evaluation of Antiproliferative Activity of the Extract against Human Cancer Cells
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(10), 1664; doi:10.3390/ijms17101664
Received: 22 July 2016 / Revised: 22 September 2016 / Accepted: 27 September 2016 / Published: 1 October 2016
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 889 | PDF Full-text (1201 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
The Thelephora ganbajun mushroom has been found to be a potential rich source of natural antioxidants. In this study, an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) technique together with GRAS (generally recognized as safe) solvents (ethanol and water) was used to maximize the extraction of antioxidants
[...] Read more.
The Thelephora ganbajun mushroom has been found to be a potential rich source of natural antioxidants. In this study, an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) technique together with GRAS (generally recognized as safe) solvents (ethanol and water) was used to maximize the extraction of antioxidants from Thelephora ganbajun. Five extraction parameters (ethanol concentration, solvent to solid ratio, extraction time, temperature and ultrasound power) were investigated by single-factor experiments, and then a central composite rotatable design was employed to study interaction of three key extraction parameters. The optimum conditions were as follows: 57.38% ethanol, 70.15 mL/g solvent to solid ratio, 10.58 min extraction time, 40 °C extraction temperature and 500 W ultrasound power. Under the optimum conditions, the antioxidant activity obtained was 346.98 ± 12.19 µmol Trolox/g DW, in accordance with the predicted value of 344.67 µmol Trolox/g DW. Comparison of UAE with conventional maceration and Soxhlet extraction, the UAE method showed stronger extract efficiency in a shorter extraction time. These results showed that UAE was an effective technique to extract antioxidants from Thelephora ganbajun. Furthermore, the extracts obtained under the optimized conditions exhibited antiproliferative activities toward human lung (A549), breast (MCF-7), liver (HepG2) and colon (HT-29) cancer cells, especially for liver and lung cancer cells. In addition, rutin, 2-hydrocinnamic acid and epicatechin were identified in the extract, which might contribute to antioxidant and antiproliferative activities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioactives and Nutraceuticals)
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Open AccessArticle The Effects of Syzygium samarangense, Passiflora edulis and Solanum muricatum on Alcohol-Induced Liver Injury
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(10), 1616; doi:10.3390/ijms17101616
Received: 1 August 2016 / Revised: 15 September 2016 / Accepted: 19 September 2016 / Published: 26 September 2016
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 704 | PDF Full-text (2285 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that fruits have different effects on alcohol metabolism and alcohol-induced liver injury. The present work selected three fruits and aimed at studying the effects of Syzygium samarangense, Passiflora edulis and Solanum muricatum on alcohol-induced liver injury in mice.
[...] Read more.
Previous studies have shown that fruits have different effects on alcohol metabolism and alcohol-induced liver injury. The present work selected three fruits and aimed at studying the effects of Syzygium samarangense, Passiflora edulis and Solanum muricatum on alcohol-induced liver injury in mice. The animals were treated daily with alcohol and fruit juices for fifteen days. Chronic treatment with alcohol increased the levels of aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), total bilirubin (TBIL), triglyceride (TG), malondialdehyde (MDA), and decreased total protein (TP). Histopathological evaluation also showed that ethanol induced extensive fat droplets in hepatocyte cytoplasm. Syzygium samarangense and Passiflora edulis normalized various biochemical parameters. Solanum muricatum increased the level of ALT and induced infiltration of inflammatory cells in the liver. These results strongly suggest that treatment with Syzygium samarangense and Passiflora edulis could protect liver from the injury of alcohol, while Solanum muricatum could aggravate the damage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioactives and Nutraceuticals)
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Open AccessReview Natural Polyphenols for Prevention and Treatment of Cancer
Nutrients 2016, 8(8), 515; doi:10.3390/nu8080515
Received: 15 June 2016 / Revised: 12 August 2016 / Accepted: 12 August 2016 / Published: 22 August 2016
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 1541 | PDF Full-text (2494 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
There is much epidemiological evidence that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables could lower the risk of certain cancers. The effect has been attributed, in part, to natural polyphenols. Besides, numerous studies have demonstrated that natural polyphenols could be used for the
[...] Read more.
There is much epidemiological evidence that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables could lower the risk of certain cancers. The effect has been attributed, in part, to natural polyphenols. Besides, numerous studies have demonstrated that natural polyphenols could be used for the prevention and treatment of cancer. Potential mechanisms included antioxidant, anti-inflammation as well as the modulation of multiple molecular events involved in carcinogenesis. The current review summarized the anticancer efficacy of major polyphenol classes (flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans and stilbenes) and discussed the potential mechanisms of action, which were based on epidemiological, in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies within the past five years. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Polyphenols for Cancer Treatment or Prevention)
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Open AccessReview Spices for Prevention and Treatment of Cancers
Nutrients 2016, 8(8), 495; doi:10.3390/nu8080495
Received: 1 June 2016 / Revised: 22 July 2016 / Accepted: 5 August 2016 / Published: 12 August 2016
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2460 | PDF Full-text (1749 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Spices have been widely used as food flavorings and folk medicines for thousands of years. Numerous studies have documented the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of spices, which might be related to prevention and treatment of several cancers, including lung, liver, breast, stomach,
[...] Read more.
Spices have been widely used as food flavorings and folk medicines for thousands of years. Numerous studies have documented the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of spices, which might be related to prevention and treatment of several cancers, including lung, liver, breast, stomach, colorectum, cervix, and prostate cancers. Several spices are potential sources for prevention and treatment of cancers, such as Curcuma longa (tumeric), Nigella sativa (black cumin), Zingiber officinale (ginger), Allium sativum (garlic), Crocus sativus (saffron), Piper nigrum (black pepper) and Capsicum annum (chili pepper), which contained several important bioactive compounds, such as curcumin, thymoquinone, piperine and capsaicin. The main mechanisms of action include inducing apoptosis, inhibiting proliferation, migration and invasion of tumors, and sensitizing tumors to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This review summarized recent studies on some spices for prevention and treatment of cancers, and special attention was paid to bioactive components and mechanisms of action. Full article
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Open AccessReview Bioactivities and Health Benefits of Wild Fruits
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(8), 1258; doi:10.3390/ijms17081258
Received: 24 May 2016 / Revised: 22 July 2016 / Accepted: 28 July 2016 / Published: 4 August 2016
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 809 | PDF Full-text (464 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Wild fruits are exotic or underutilized. Wild fruits contain many bioactive compounds, such as anthocyanins and flavonoids. Many studies have shown that wild fruits possess various bioactivities and health benefits, such as free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activity. Therefore, wild
[...] Read more.
Wild fruits are exotic or underutilized. Wild fruits contain many bioactive compounds, such as anthocyanins and flavonoids. Many studies have shown that wild fruits possess various bioactivities and health benefits, such as free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer activity. Therefore, wild fruits have the potential to be developed into functional foods or pharmaceuticals to prevent and treat several chronic diseases. In the present article, we review current knowledge about the bioactivities and health benefits of wild fruits, which is valuable for the exploitation and utilization of wild fruits. Full article
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Open AccessReview Alcoholic Beverage Consumption and Chronic Diseases
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2016, 13(6), 522; doi:10.3390/ijerph13060522
Received: 13 January 2016 / Revised: 12 May 2016 / Accepted: 16 May 2016 / Published: 24 May 2016
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1123 | PDF Full-text (540 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Epidemiological and experimental studies have consistently linked alcoholic beverage consumption with the development of several chronic disorders, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus and obesity. The impact of drinking is usually dose-dependent, and light to moderate drinking tends to lower risks of
[...] Read more.
Epidemiological and experimental studies have consistently linked alcoholic beverage consumption with the development of several chronic disorders, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus and obesity. The impact of drinking is usually dose-dependent, and light to moderate drinking tends to lower risks of certain diseases, while heavy drinking tends to increase the risks. Besides, other factors such as drinking frequency, genetic susceptibility, smoking, diet, and hormone status can modify the association. The amount of ethanol in alcoholic beverages is the determining factor in most cases, and beverage types could also make an influence. This review summarizes recent studies on alcoholic beverage consumption and several chronic diseases, trying to assess the effects of different drinking patterns, beverage types, interaction with other risk factors, and provide mechanistic explanations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Substance and Drug Abuse Prevention)
Open AccessArticle Effects of 20 Selected Fruits on Ethanol Metabolism: Potential Health Benefits and Harmful Impacts
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2016, 13(4), 399; doi:10.3390/ijerph13040399
Received: 16 February 2016 / Revised: 28 March 2016 / Accepted: 30 March 2016 / Published: 1 April 2016
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1208 | PDF Full-text (598 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
The consumption of alcohol is often accompanied by other foods, such as fruits and vegetables. This study is aimed to investigate the effects of 20 selected fruits on ethanol metabolism to find out their potential health benefits and harmful impacts. The effects of
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The consumption of alcohol is often accompanied by other foods, such as fruits and vegetables. This study is aimed to investigate the effects of 20 selected fruits on ethanol metabolism to find out their potential health benefits and harmful impacts. The effects of the fruits on ethanol metabolism were characterized by the concentrations of ethanol and acetaldehyde in blood, as well as activities of alcohol dehydrogenase and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase in liver of mice. Furthermore, potential health benefits and harmful impacts of the fruits were evaluated by biochemical parameters including aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transferase (ALT), malondialdehyde, and superoxide dismutase. Generally, effects of these fruits on ethanol metabolism were very different. Some fruits (such as Citrus limon (yellow), Averrhoa carambola, Pyrus spp., and Syzygium samarangense) could decrease the concentration of ethanol in blood. In addition, several fruits (such as Cucumis melo) showed hepatoprotective effects by significantly decreasing AST or ALT level in blood, while some fruits (such as Averrhoa carambola) showed adverse effects. The results suggested that the consumption of alcohol should not be accompanied by some fruits, and several fruits could be developed as functional foods for the prevention and treatment of hangover and alcohol use disorder. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Substance and Drug Abuse Prevention)
Open AccessReview Dietary Natural Products for Prevention and Treatment of Liver Cancer
Nutrients 2016, 8(3), 156; doi:10.3390/nu8030156
Received: 11 January 2016 / Revised: 22 February 2016 / Accepted: 1 March 2016 / Published: 10 March 2016
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2200 | PDF Full-text (828 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Liver cancer is the most common malignancy of the digestive system with high death rate. Accumulating evidences suggests that many dietary natural products are potential sources for prevention and treatment of liver cancer, such as grapes, black currant, plum, pomegranate, cruciferous vegetables, French
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Liver cancer is the most common malignancy of the digestive system with high death rate. Accumulating evidences suggests that many dietary natural products are potential sources for prevention and treatment of liver cancer, such as grapes, black currant, plum, pomegranate, cruciferous vegetables, French beans, tomatoes, asparagus, garlic, turmeric, ginger, soy, rice bran, and some edible macro-fungi. These dietary natural products and their active components could affect the development and progression of liver cancer in various ways, such as inhibiting tumor cell growth and metastasis, protecting against liver carcinogens, immunomodulating and enhancing effects of chemotherapeutic drugs. This review summarizes the potential prevention and treatment activities of dietary natural products and their major bioactive constituents on liver cancer, and discusses possible mechanisms of action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health-Promoting Components of Fruits and Vegetables in Human Health)
Open AccessArticle Effects of Beverages on Alcohol Metabolism: Potential Health Benefits and Harmful Impacts
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2016, 17(3), 354; doi:10.3390/ijms17030354
Received: 23 January 2016 / Revised: 2 March 2016 / Accepted: 3 March 2016 / Published: 9 March 2016
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1240 | PDF Full-text (396 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Nonalcoholic beverages are usually consumed accompanying alcoholic drinks, and their effects on alcohol metabolism are unclear in vivo. In this study, the effects of 20 nonalcoholic beverages on alcohol metabolism and liver injury caused by alcohol were evaluated in mice. Kunming mice
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Nonalcoholic beverages are usually consumed accompanying alcoholic drinks, and their effects on alcohol metabolism are unclear in vivo. In this study, the effects of 20 nonalcoholic beverages on alcohol metabolism and liver injury caused by alcohol were evaluated in mice. Kunming mice were orally fed with alcohol (52%, v/v) and beverages. The concentrations of ethanol and acetaldehyde in blood as well as the activities of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) in liver were assessed to indicate alcohol metabolism. The levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) in serum as well as the levels of malonaldehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in liver were measured to reflect the alcohol-induced liver injury. The results showed that the treatment of soda water, green tea and honey chrysanthemum tea could accelerate ethanol metabolism and prevent liver injuries caused by alcohol when companied with excessive alcohol drinking. They might be potential dietary supplements for the alleviation of harmful effects from excessive alcohol consumption. On the contrary, some beverages such as fresh orange juice and red bull are not advised to drink when companied with alcohol consumption due to their adverse effects on ethanol induced liver injury. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology)
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Open AccessReview Natural Products for the Prevention and Treatment of Hangover and Alcohol Use Disorder
Molecules 2016, 21(1), 64; doi:10.3390/molecules21010064
Received: 29 November 2015 / Revised: 30 December 2015 / Accepted: 31 December 2015 / Published: 7 January 2016
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2724 | PDF Full-text (804 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine and spirits are widely consumed around the world. However, alcohol and its metabolite acetaldehyde are toxic and harmful to human beings. Chronic alcohol use disorder or occasional binge drinking can cause a wide range of health problems,
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Alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine and spirits are widely consumed around the world. However, alcohol and its metabolite acetaldehyde are toxic and harmful to human beings. Chronic alcohol use disorder or occasional binge drinking can cause a wide range of health problems, such as hangover, liver damage and cancer. Some natural products such as traditional herbs, fruits, and vegetables might be potential dietary supplements or medicinal products for the prevention and treatment of the problems caused by excessive alcohol consumption. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of effective natural products for the prevention and treatment of hangover and alcohol use disorder, and special emphasis is paid to the possible functional component(s) and related mechanism(s) of action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products)
Open AccessArticle Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Natural Antioxidants from the Flower of Jatropha integerrima by Response Surface Methodology
Molecules 2016, 21(1), 18; doi:10.3390/molecules21010018
Received: 29 November 2015 / Revised: 15 December 2015 / Accepted: 18 December 2015 / Published: 24 December 2015
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 971 | PDF Full-text (1317 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
An ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method was developed for the efficient extraction of natural antioxidants from the flowers of Jatropha integerrima. Four independent variables, including ethanol concentration, solvent/material ratio, ultrasound irradiation time and temperature were studied by single factor experiments. Then, the central
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An ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method was developed for the efficient extraction of natural antioxidants from the flowers of Jatropha integerrima. Four independent variables, including ethanol concentration, solvent/material ratio, ultrasound irradiation time and temperature were studied by single factor experiments. Then, the central composite rotatable design and response surface methodology were employed to investigate the effect of three key parameters (ethanol concentration, solvent/material ratio, and ultrasound irradiation time) on the antioxidant activities of the flower extracts. The optimal extraction conditions were an ethanol concentration of 59.6%, solvent/material ratio of 50:1, ultrasound irradiation time of 7 min, and ultrasound irradiation temperature of 40 °C. Under these conditions, the optimized experimental value was 1103.38 ± 16.11 µmol Trolox/g dry weight (DW), which was in accordance with the predicted value (1105.49 µmol Trolox/g DW). Furthermore, the antioxidant activities of flower extracts obtained by UAE were compared with those produced by the traditional maceration and Soxhlet extraction methods, and UAE resulted in higher antioxidant activities after a shorter time at a lower temperature. The results obtained are helpful for the full utilization of Jatropha integerrima, and also indicate that ultrasound-assisted extraction is an efficient method for the extraction of natural antioxidants from plant materials. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products)
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Open AccessReview Antioxidant Phytochemicals for the Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Diseases
Molecules 2015, 20(12), 21138-21156; doi:10.3390/molecules201219753
Received: 19 August 2015 / Revised: 10 November 2015 / Accepted: 20 November 2015 / Published: 27 November 2015
Cited by 53 | Viewed by 3464 | PDF Full-text (254 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
Overproduction of oxidants (reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species) in the human body is responsible for the pathogenesis of some diseases. The scavenging of these oxidants is thought to be an effective measure to depress the level of oxidative stress of organisms.
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Overproduction of oxidants (reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species) in the human body is responsible for the pathogenesis of some diseases. The scavenging of these oxidants is thought to be an effective measure to depress the level of oxidative stress of organisms. It has been reported that intake of vegetables and fruits is inversely associated with the risk of many chronic diseases, and antioxidant phytochemicals in vegetables and fruits are considered to be responsible for these health benefits. Antioxidant phytochemicals can be found in many foods and medicinal plants, and play an important role in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases caused by oxidative stress. They often possess strong antioxidant and free radical scavenging abilities, as well as anti-inflammatory action, which are also the basis of other bioactivities and health benefits, such as anticancer, anti-aging, and protective action for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, obesity and neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarizes recent progress on the health benefits of antioxidant phytochemicals, and discusses their potential mechanisms in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidants—A Risk-Benefit Analysis for Health)
Open AccessArticle Relationship between High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Fingerprints and Uric Acid-Lowering Activities of Cichorium intybus L.
Molecules 2015, 20(5), 9455-9467; doi:10.3390/molecules20059455
Received: 26 March 2015 / Accepted: 18 May 2015 / Published: 22 May 2015
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1273 | PDF Full-text (1008 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the spectrum-effect relationships between high-performance liquid chromatography fingerprints and the uric acid-lowering activities of chicory. Chemical fingerprints of chicory samples from ten different sources were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography, and then investigated by similarity analysis and hierarchical
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This study aimed to explore the spectrum-effect relationships between high-performance liquid chromatography fingerprints and the uric acid-lowering activities of chicory. Chemical fingerprints of chicory samples from ten different sources were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography, and then investigated by similarity analysis and hierarchical clustering analysis. Pharmacodynamics experiments were conducted in animals to obtain the uric acid-lowering activity information of each chicory sample. The spectrum-effect relationships between chemical fingerprints and the uric acid-lowering activities of chicory were established by canonical correlation analysis. The structures of potential effective peaks were identified by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. The results showed that a close correlation existed between the spectrum and effect of chicory. Aesculin, chlorogenic acid, chicoric acid, isochlorogenic acid A/B/C and 13,14-seco-stigma5(6),14(15)-diene-3α-ol might be the main effective constituents. This work provides a general model of the combination of high-performance liquid chromatography and uric acid-lowering activities to study the spectrum-effect relationships of chicory, which can be used to discover the principle components responsible for the bioactivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural Products)
Open AccessArticle Recreational Exposure to Low Concentrations of Microcystins During an Algal Bloom in a Small Lake
Mar. Drugs 2008, 6(2), 389-406; doi:10.3390/md6020389
Received: 6 February 2008 / Revised: 5 June 2008 / Accepted: 19 June 2008 / Published: 26 June 2008
Cited by 49 | Viewed by 10892 | PDF Full-text (327 KB) | HTML Full-text | XML Full-text
Abstract
We measured microcystins in blood from people at risk for swallowing water or inhaling spray while swimming, water skiing, jet skiing, or boating during an algal bloom. We monitored water samples from a small lake as a Microcystis aeruginosa bloom developed. We recruited
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We measured microcystins in blood from people at risk for swallowing water or inhaling spray while swimming, water skiing, jet skiing, or boating during an algal bloom. We monitored water samples from a small lake as a Microcystis aeruginosa bloom developed. We recruited 97 people planning recreational activities in that lake and seven others who volunteered to recreate in a nearby bloom-free lake. We conducted our field study within a week of finding a 10-μg/L microcystin concentration. We analyzed water, air, and human blood samples for water quality, potential human pathogens, algal taxonomy, and microcystin concentrations. We interviewed study participants for demographic and current health symptom information. Water samples were assayed for potential respiratory viruses (adenoviruses and enteroviruses), but none were detected. We did find low concentrations of Escherichia coli, indicating fecal contamination. We found low levels of microcystins (2 μg/L to 5 μg/L) in the water and (<0.1 ng/m3) in the aerosol samples. Blood levels of microcystins for all participants were below the limit of detection (0.147μg/L). Given this low exposure level, study participants reported no symptom increases following recreational exposure to microcystins. This is the first study to report that water-based recreational activities can expose people to very low concentrations of aerosol-borne microcystins; we recently conducted another field study to assess exposures to higher concentrations of these algal toxins. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Toxins)

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